CRMJ 2460 - Mental Health and the Criminal Justice System

(3) Credit Hours

In this course, students will examine the intersection between mental health and the criminal justice system by exploring how individuals with mental health disorders interact with law enforcement, including topics like police response to mental health crises, the correlation between psychiatric disorders and criminal behavior, treatment options within prisons as well as barriers to receiving adequate care, and the challenges of managing mental health within the community, with a focus on understanding the psychosocial factors contributing to this junction and potential strategies for improving responses to criminogenic and mental health needs within these systems. Through review of current and relevant literature, and practical application exercises using case vignettes, students will gain a deeper understanding of these topics and how crucial it is to develop interdisciplinary teams to effectively address psychosocial issues and minimize crime. Fall and Spring semesters. Prerequisites: CRMJ 1100 or Department Head approval.

Effective Spring 2026.